TRADITIONAL
FRANCISCAN
NATIVITY SCENE
801 Years of Tradition.
LIVE ITS HISTORY.
VISIT THE CHURCH!
SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH
Piazza Marco Berardi
Cosenza, Calabria, Italy
It is strongly recommended to park your vehicle before reaching Piazza Marco Berardi.
VISITING HOURS
Morning: 9AM - 12PM
Afternoon: 4:30PM - 7PM
Every day until February 2nd, 2025.
Schedule subject to change.
ATTENTION: The nativity scene may be turned off from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM due to the novena of St. Catherine and mass. For a complete experience, including lights, sounds, and special effects, it is recommended to visit between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
- INTRODUCTION
- NATIVITY SCENE 2024
- INAUGURATION NATIVITY 2024
- NATIVITY SCENE ORIGINS
- IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
NATIVITY DOCUMENTARY
- CHAPTER I - DEPOSITION
- CHAPTER II - CONSTRUCTION
- CHAPTER III - THE HISTORY
- CHAPTER IV - THE ROUTINE
- CHAPTER V - THE WORK
- CHURCH AND NATIVITY
- PREVIEW
- FILM COLLECTION
- WHERE WE ARE
- PARKING
= Video/Film
= Reading/Information
INTRODUCTION
The nativity scene conceived by St. Francis of Assisi in Greccio in 1223 turns 801. Celebrate the eight-hundred first anniversary of its first representation and don't miss the opportunity to experience the tradition through our nativity scene, set up at the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza!
The main objective of this portal is to involve everyone in the timeless story of the Nativity, a fascinating tradition that transcends generations and embodies the values of compassion, humility, and love. The Nativity scene encapsulates the very essence of Christmas: the celebration of hope and the miracle of birth, prompting us to reflect on the deeper meanings woven into this timeless work of art.
This platform is a heartfelt tribute to my father, Mario Parise, and the exceptional group of volunteers and friends from the neighborhood. It is also a tribute to dear friends Mr. Filippo Caruso and Mr. Salvatore Marcello, artistic assistants, and Mr. Giuseppe Mucci, chief electrician, who will always remain in our hearts.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Mr. Claudio Leone and Mr. Giuseppe Biamonte, who for decades collaborated with Mario Parise and others in creating numerous nativity scenes. A special thanks also goes to the seasonal collaborators Mr. Franco Tucci, Salvatore Laratta, and Marcello Cucunato for their commitment and dedication.
Volunteers in the 1980s: neighborhood friends with Father Francesco Caloiero, Father Antonio Martella, Mario Parise, and myself.
Maestro Mario Parise, at the age of 83, the only full-time volunteer remaining, is currently continuing the creation of the work which, in my opinion, is one of the most impressive in Italy.
This portal constitutes both a tribute and a thank-you to Father Francesco Caloiero, as well as to all the parish priests and clergy of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza, for their continuous support in the organization and realization of this extraordinary work.
Come visit the nativity scene and discover our fascinating church by joining us on a journey that blends history, faith, and a rich cultural heritage.
Disclaimer:
This portal is currently not affiliated with the official website of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza, nor is it a part of it. As mentioned, it is instead a dedicated space as a tribute to my father, Maestro Mario Parise, and to all the volunteers who have contributed to the construction of the nativity scene over the years. Some of the images and videos used on the portal are from archives and may not necessarily represent the current work. Nonetheless, many of the traditional and classic representations of the Franciscan nativity scene featured on the portal are an integral part of the new nativity scenes, including the one for Christmas 2024.
My commitment as a volunteer in creating this portal dedicated to the Franciscan nativity scene and the beautiful church of San Francesco d'Assisi represents my way of paying homage to my original neighborhood, to which I will always be connected. I want to thank my family, along with all the other families and dear friends of the San Francesco d'Assisi neighborhood in Cosenza, who have made it so special over the years.
NATIVITY 2024
Some of the novelties of the 2024 Christmas nativity scene include the return to the original site from the 1980s (historic location as seen in Chapter III of our documentary) and a more accurate reproduction of the manger, as well as the depiction of the visit of the shepherds at the birth of Jesus. The event is deliberately portrayed by Maestro Mario Parise in a way that is much more faithful to the account in the Gospel of Luke (2, 1-20), where Luke describes the appearance of an angel to the shepherds, who were watching over their flocks by night. The angel announced to them the birth of Jesus, telling them they would find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. The passage describing the shepherds' entry into the manger confirms that they entered the place where Jesus was born and found the child in the manger, just as the angel had announced to them.
Gospel of Luke 2, 1-20
"When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, 'Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us". (Luke 2,15)
"And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger". (Luke 2,16)
Below, are some photos of Maestro Mario Parise, the only remaining full-time volunteer, who, at the age of 83, continues to dedicate himself passionately to the creation of the traditional Franciscan nativity scene, a work that comes to life through a meticulous construction process.
The process begins with the assembly of steel pipes, which form the supporting structure, followed by the construction of a wooden scaffold, a fundamental element for supporting the entire composition. Subsequently, the base is covered with packing paper, which gives a realistic rock effect, ensuring a suggestive and faithful reproduction of the places where Jesus was born.
In the final phase, the nativity scene takes shape with the addition of moss, small trees, and houses, while an electrical system illuminates the landscape and a water system creates a charming little stream with a pond. The shepherds, carefully positioned, represent different moments of the Nativity, with the larger ones placed in the foreground to be admired by visitors, while the smaller ones are positioned further back, each with its own symbolism and meaning, enriching the work with deep spirituality and tradition.
Photos by Daniele Iantorno
INAUGURATION
From left to right: Mayor's delegate, City Councilor Francesco Turco, Father Francesco Caloiero, His Excellency Monsignor Giovanni Checchinato, Father Luigi Laricchia, Father Antonio Martella (behind), Don Luca Perri, and Mario Parise (Nativity Scene Creator). Photo: Emilio and Daniele Iantorno.
Inauguration of the Nativity Scene: After the Mass, the nativity scene, created with great care and devotion, is officially "opened" to the public. This moment is marked by a prayer and blessing, during which the priest or celebrant invokes divine blessing on all those present and on the nativity scene, symbol of the Nativity of Christ.
Prayer before the Nativity Scene: The faithful approach the Nativity scene to pray and reflect on Christmas. This may include a personal or community prayer, such as the "Our Father," a moment of silence, or a special prayer to ask for God's blessing for families and the community.
Songs and Reflection: Sometimes, Christmas carols are performed, which recall the theme of the Nativity. The songs and reflections help the faithful to enter into the spirit of Christmas, strengthening the sense of community and spirituality.
Visit to the Nativity Scene: After the ceremony, many people approach the nativity scene to admire its details and meditate on the profound meaning of each figure.
This tradition, which combines religious meaning with preparation for Christmas, is an opportunity to pray together, renew faith and reflect on the message of peace and hope that Christmas brings to everyone.
ORIGINS
The Franciscan nativity scene has deep roots connected to Saint Francis of Assisi, who is often considered the creator of the first representation of the nativity. According to tradition, in 1223 in Greccio, Italy, Saint Francis arranged a scene depicting the Nativity of Jesus with live animals and people, aiming to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ in a tangible and accessible manner for ordinary people. This event is commonly regarded as the beginning of the nativity tradition.
The significance of the Franciscan nativity extends beyond a mere artistic representation. Saint Francis aimed to bring people closer to the simplicity and humility of Jesus' birth, embodying the values of poverty and humility that characterized his spiritual vision. Thus, the nativity becomes a symbol of the joy of Christ's birth and the humility of his arrival into the world.
Archival image. The artist and maestro Mario Parise during a phase of constructing the Nativity scene.
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
The feast of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated on December 8th, commemorates the Catholic dogma that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin, preserved from all stain of sin from the moment of her conception. This feast emphasizes Mary's purity and holiness, as she was purified by God in preparation for her mission as the mother of Jesus.
It is a day of great spiritual significance for Catholics, symbolizing the hope of redemption for all of humanity through divine grace. The feast is also an occasion for prayer and reflection on Mary's role in the salvation of humanity.
S.E. Mons. Giovanni Checchinato.
Christmas floral decorations by Anna Parise, L'Angolo dei Fiori, Cosenza. Photo: Emilio and Daniele Iantorno.
The Holy Mass and the inauguration of the 2024 Nativity scene edition were presided over by His Excellency Monsignor Giovanni Checchinato, Father Francesco Caloiero, and Don Luca Perri. Also taking part were Father Antonio Martella, Father Luigi Laricchia, Professor Maria Pernice, Prior of the Confraternity of Santa Caterina, members of the Confraternity of Santa Caterina, Secretary Salvatore Lanzillotta, and the mayor's delegate, City Councilor Francesco Turco.
DECORATIONS 2024
This year, my wife and I had the pleasure of offering the Christmas decorations for the main altar of the church and collaborating with L'Angolo dei Fiori, located at Via Vittorio Veneto 1, in Cosenza, to bring the project to life. Our goal is to make the Christmas experience of 2024 in our church as welcoming and warm as possible for all visitors.
We want everyone who enters to feel the joy of Christmas through the nativity scene, the beauty of our church, the decorations, and a bright, festive environment that reflects the spirit of Christmas: light, symbolizing the birth of Jesus.
Thanks to the professionalism and support of Anna Parise from L'Angolo dei Fiori in designing the decorations, our desire has become a reality. Her experience and attention to detail have enriched the main altar, giving it a new beauty that conveys harmony and festivity. This has helped create a welcoming and serene atmosphere that fully reflects the spirit of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza, making the environment even more special for all visitors.
Come visit the nativity scene, our beautiful church, and admire the Christmas decorations, to experience something unique and immerse yourself in the special atmosphere of Christmas 2024.
Christmas Decorations. Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, Cosenza, Natale 2024.
BERSAGLIERI
We are pleased to share with the visitors of our website a small selection of videos from the beautiful performance of the Fanfara dei Bersaglieri, a unit of the Italian Army based in Cosenza, which performed during the Christmas holidays at our church. The videos include the event of December 16, 2024, followed by a much larger repertoire from 2023. As soon as we have the complete recording of the 2024 performance, we will make it fully available on our website for all visitors.
The repertoire of the Fanfara dei Bersaglieri mainly consists of military marches, but it also includes popular and Christmas pieces, such as those performed during the holiday season. During the performance, Christmas songs were played, along with famous hits like "La vita è bella" (Nicola Piovani) and a charming Neapolitan music piece, offering a blend of tradition and engaging music. A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and celebrate the beauty of music.
The Bersaglieri are a corps of the Italian Army, created in 1836 by order of Carlo Alberto of Savoy, with the task of being a light and highly mobile infantry force. Famous for their speed and characteristic running with the rifle on the shoulder, the Bersaglieri are distinguished by the plumed hat, which is their most recognizable symbol. Today, the Bersaglieri are an elite unit with support tasks in various operational scenarios.
Padre Francesco Caliero, Mario Parise and friends with the "Fanfara dei Bersaglieri."
Mario Parise (creator of the nativity scene) with the "Fanfara dei Bersaglieri."
The characteristic march of the "Fanfara dei Bersaglieri." Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, Christmas 2024."
In a fascinating journey through the magnificent setting of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, this mini-documentary is divided into five engaging chapters. The first depicts the 'Deposition of the Baby Jesus' in the manger, a touching moment of immense cultural and religious significance celebrated during the midnight mass on Christmas Eve, between the 24th and 25th of December. Personally produced by me, this documentary stands as a heartfelt tribute dedicated to my beloved father and to my mother, who will forever live in my heart...
The second chapter provides an in-depth look at the meticulous "Construction of the Nativity Scene," narrated directly by Maestro Mario Parise, taking us into the workshops and underground rooms of the church, where every element, from the little houses to the paper, from the electrical setup to the shepherds, comes to life...
The third chapter briefly presents 'The History' of the various areas of the church that have housed previous nativity scenes, dating back from as far as 1970 up to the current work...
The fourth chapter of the documentary provides a glimpse into maestro Mario Parise's daily routine during the Christmas season and beyond. With tireless dedication, he ensures that the nativity is always ready and accessible to visitors.
Finally, the fifth chapter leads us to the conclusion, presenting the work in its entirety. This phase is enriched by the authoritative contributions of renowned local and regional journalistic sources, offering an additional perspective on the creation and consolidating the importance and value of the work.
This video, filmed in the artistic heart of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi in Cosenza, founded in 1217, offers a close-up look at the nativity scene and the incredible artistic beauty of this sacred place. In addition to showcasing the nativity scene, it will take you on a fascinating virtual journey through the most evocative and captivating areas of the church, exploring its architectural and artistic wonders.
The preview (archival) exhibition of the nativity scene housed in the prestigious Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, located in Cosenza, Calabria, Italy, represents an extraordinary experience steeped in tradition, infusing magic into the souls of both adults and children, becoming an unmissable event.
Although it is an archival preview, many of the traditional and classic representations of the Franciscan nativity, featured in this footage, form an important integral part of the new nativity scene, including that of Christmas 2023. This preview offers a suggestive and precious glimpse into the scenes that will also constitute the essence of the new nativity work destined for this upcoming Christmas.
VIDEOS
Explore the Magic of the Nativity Scene: Our video collection brings together all the emotions, details, and atmosphere of the previous sections, listed below.
LOCATION
The Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, a remarkable architectural example, is located in the central nucleus of the historic center of Cosenza, specifically situated in Piazza Marco Berardi. Access to the church can be made through various ways, primarily from the Mancini Bridge or from Valdesi Square.
Padre Francesco Caloiero and Mario Parise
For a better experience during your visit, we invite you to check the satellite image below (click on it to enlarge), followed by the Google map, and finally the parking section for additional information. The map will assist you in easily locating our position, while the parking section provides useful details for convenient arrival at our site. Thank you for your attention, and we hope these resources will be helpful during your visit.
Satellite image showing access routes to the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi.
PARKING
Visitors are strongly advised to park their vehicles before reaching Piazza Marco Berardi due to the narrow road layout of the historic center, which could lead to traffic congestion. Please refer to the diagram above indicating recommended parking areas. We strongly discourage parking in the area marked in red. Instead, it's advisable to use the green zone to find parking, which is generally more available. Click on the image below to enlarge map.
Parking Map. Click to enlarge the image.
AERIAL VIEW
The aerial view of the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi offers a suggestive and fascinating perspective. The church and the surrounding convent complex emerge as an island of history and spirituality within the urban fabric. The architectural structure of the church, with its distinctive bell tower and majestic domes, stands in contrast to the surrounding buildings. The roofs of ancient houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and courtyards intertwine around the church, creating a captivating mosaic of past epochs and the present.
The Church of San Francesco d'Assisi occupies a central position, and from the aerial view, one can appreciate the architectural details such as the facades, stained glass windows, and the relative dimensions of the complex. The surrounding squares, branching streets, and the small details of Cosenza's historic center are evident, while the church remains a focal point of historical and cultural reference in the city.
Google Map Satellite Images
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